Some advice to assist you finding a solution:
Catch Your Partner's Policy
If it is possible to acquire health coverage under your working spouse's family policy, that's generally the best way get it. While your other-half may be obligated to pay an additional premium, it will most likely be a lot less than the cost of paying for your own policy.
COBRA Insurance for the Short-term
If in your case you can't holdup a with your spouse's insurance coverage or you are single, you can also opt to continue under your immediate former employers' health plan called COBRA, for up to 18 months after termination. However, at this stage it will be required that you pay your own premium plus extra so as to cover the administrative costs. Still, these costs will probably be much less than those prevailing on the open market.
Employers may also provide an extension of benefits as a part of partition; this includes granting a six- or 12-month expansion of health coverage. As for example, if the member of staff is intending to delay his exit so as to conclude a crucial project. This provides you with more time, as the 18 months of COBRA benefits will ripe following the benefits extension expiry.
Group Rates: Worth in Figures
If you are left with no other option but to go along, then get in touch with professional associations or trade groups in your field, and figure-out if membership provides you with access to group rates on insurance. However, the benefits in such groups' plans are not promising always; still the larger the group, the inferior the quality of benefits but it's still valued to avail a quote.
Managed Care vs. Traditional Insurance
If you face the situation of buying your own personal coverage; it is to be decided among HMO or a traditional indemnity health-insurance policy. Now, remember that an HMO is highly preferable for a fit young individual until you have kids or approach middle age. Otherwise you can opt for a high-deductible indemnity policy with a comparatively low premium. Also, remember that the cost calculation of a policy goes beyond just premiums. It is important to determine the total cost of premiums, copayments and deductibles for the entire life.